Discover a historic village, fascinating local stories and the enduring appeal of a traditional New Forest inn.
Some places seem to have absorbed the stories of everyone who has passed through their doors.
In Emery Down, a small village just outside Lyndhurst, The New Forest Inn has a history that stretches back well over a century, with local traditions that reach even further into the past.
Surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the New Forest, it's a wonderful place to discover the area's history and enjoy the atmosphere of a traditional village inn.
The Story of Emery Down
Emery Down is a small settlement overlooking Swan Green and Lyndhurst.
Its name has changed over the centuries. Historical records refer to the village as Emerichdon in 1379 and Emeresdowne in 1490, probably reflecting a connection with the Emery family.
The village itself has a fascinating history, with connections to education, local benefactors and the development of the surrounding community.
One particularly interesting local figure was Admiral Frederick Moore Boultbee, who settled in Emery Down in 1856 and contributed to several village projects.
The school he helped establish opened in 1865, while the village hall built in the 1920s continues to reflect the importance of community life.
A Pub with a Remarkable Past
The New Forest Inn, formerly known as the New Inn, dates back to at least the first half of the nineteenth century.
Local tradition suggests that the original establishment may have started as a caravan selling mead and ale to the surrounding village.
The current building developed over time, and parts of its unusual structure have been linked to this early history.
The inn also has an intriguing association with the early twentieth-century history of the village, when different sections of the building were operated separately and offered refreshments and furnished accommodation.
It's a wonderful reminder of the changing role of village inns over the generations.
Exploring the New Forest from Emery Down
Emery Down is ideally placed for visitors who want to explore the wider New Forest.
Lyndhurst is just a short distance away, offering independent shops, cafés and the New Forest Heritage Centre.
The surrounding countryside also provides opportunities for walking and enjoying the beautiful woodland and heathland landscapes that make this area so special.
For visitors interested in local history, the wider Lyndhurst area offers plenty to discover, from ancient forest traditions to historic buildings and fascinating stories associated with the village.
A Traditional Inn for Modern Visitors
Today, The New Forest Inn continues to welcome visitors looking for good food, comfortable accommodation and a relaxed countryside experience.
Whether you're planning a weekend away, stopping for a meal or exploring the Forest on foot, the inn offers a convenient base for discovering this beautiful part of Hampshire.
The combination of local heritage and the surrounding countryside makes Emery Down a particularly rewarding destination for anyone who enjoys exploring beyond the familiar tourist attractions.
Discover the Stories Behind the New Forest
The New Forest is famous for its landscapes and wildlife, but its villages and historic inns are just as much a part of its character.
Emery Down is a wonderful example of how a small community can preserve its history while continuing to welcome new generations of visitors.
At The New Forest Inn, the pleasures of a traditional country stay meet the fascinating stories of a village with a history all its own.
The New Forest Inn, Emery Down, near Lyndhurst, SO43 7DY.